These are the questions that must be answered as serious
questions have been raised about the official police account surrounding the
recent brawl.
Video still of bar fight with the Pagans MC and undercover police on October 13, 2018
The Oct. 13 dust up was ostensibly the result of a drug
dealing sting gone awry. According to the police, the undercover officers had
their covers blown before a Pagan allegedly started pushing and throwing
punches. The officers claimed the use of force was necessary for bringing down
the unruly men.
All told, four alleged Pagans were arrested and charged with
aggravated assault, conspiracy and causing a riot.
Video from the incident and testimony from others have
revealed discrepancies in the official account
Surveillance cameras inside the bar captured officers
drinking heavily for about five hours before the confrontation. Attorney Martin
A. Dietz, who represents 28-year-old Erik Heitzenrater, estimated that some of
the detectives had as many as 15 drinks, usually doubles and triples on the
rocks.
The officers then verbally sparred with the alleged Pagans.
One detective raised his shirt to display his firearm. More words were
exchanged, then pushing, then fisticuffs.
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After the fight broke out, video captured one defendant,
36-year-old Frank Deluca, being pinned against the bar by one officer as
another struck Mr. Deluca in the head 19 times. Mr. Deluca was hospitalized
with two black eyes, one of which was swollen shut, and bruising on his
forehead.
Another alleged Pagan can be seen getting punched by an
officer despite standing away from the scuffle. The officer then kicks that
same man on the ground.
It is clear there are significant questions to be answered
about this operation. But the police have not seemed too eager to answer them.
On Oct. 25, Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen A.
Zappala Jr. publicly questioned why the police have not been forthcoming with
evidence and statements about the brawl.
Not enough evidence against the Pagans MC
Mr. Zappala said that, as of this writing, he does not have
enough evidence to prosecute any of the accused Pagans. He also stated that the
police have not informed if the officers were actually undercover or on an
assignment in the bar.
Are officers permitted to drink on the job? What latitude is
afforded to undercover officers on assignment? What is the evidence supporting
the charges facing the four alleged Pagans?
Mr. Zappala is right to criticize the department for its
obfuscation, an approach he has effectively used in the past. The people of
Pittsburgh need to know that their police officers are comporting themselves in
a respectful manner and that the department will provide transparency and
accountability. They deserve answers.